Egyptian Goulash is a perfect blend of crispy, golden phyllo layers and savory, spiced beef filling. Every bite offers a satisfying crunch, balanced by the warmth of the aromatic beef. This dish is deeply rooted in Middle Eastern cuisine, bringing traditional flavors to your table with minimal effort. This meat pie is perfect for gatherings, meal prepping, or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home. Serve it alongside a fresh Mediterranean salad or a dollop of creamy yogurt for a delightful contrast in textures. Whether you’re new to working with phyllo or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 (16-ounce) package of frozen phyllo dough, thawed overnight in the fridge
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil (or ½ cup olive oil + ½ cup melted butter)
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
- 1 ½ teaspoons baharat spice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lay the thawed phyllo dough sheets between two lightly damp kitchen towels to keep them moist.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft.
- Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the baharat spice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
- Lightly grease a 9.5 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Place 3-4 sheets of phyllo dough at the bottom, folding in any excess edges. Brush the top layer generously with olive oil or the oil-butter mixture. Repeat until half of the phyllo sheets are used.
- Evenly spread the cooked beef mixture over the phyllo base.
- Layer the remaining phyllo sheets on top, following the same method as before, brushing each layer with olive oil.
- Brush the final top sheet generously with olive oil. Using a sharp knife, cut the assembled pie into 12 squares.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg and milk together with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the pie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 385 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
A Taste of Egyptian Comfort Food
Egyptian Goulash represents the essence of home cooking warm, hearty, and packed with deep flavors. The combination of crispy phyllo dough and a fragrant beef filling creates a contrast of textures that is both indulgent and satisfying. The beef is seasoned with traditional Middle Eastern spices such as baharat, which is a blend of warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, cumin, and paprika. This spice mix enhances the meat’s natural flavors, giving it a rich and aromatic taste.
One of the most appealing aspects of Egyptian Goulash is its versatility. It can be served as a main dish, a side, or even an appetizer. Some variations include adding a touch of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, for an extra layer of creaminess. Others incorporate different meats like lamb or chicken, adapting the dish to various tastes and dietary preferences.
Why Phyllo Dough?
Phyllo dough, a paper-thin pastry used in both sweet and savory dishes, plays a crucial role in Egyptian Goulash. It provides the signature crispiness that makes this dish stand out. While many people find phyllo dough intimidating to work with, it is actually quite simple if handled with care. The key to working with phyllo is to keep it covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out. Each layer must be brushed with olive oil or melted butter to ensure a perfectly crispy and golden crust when baked.
Phyllo dough is a staple ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, used in popular dishes such as spanakopita (Greek spinach pie) and baklava (a sweet pastry with nuts and syrup). Its delicate texture allows it to be stacked in multiple layers, creating a light and flaky bite in every forkful. In Egyptian Goulash, the phyllo sheets encase the meat filling, forming a golden, crispy shell that perfectly complements the juicy and spiced beef inside.
A Dish Rooted in Tradition
Egyptian cuisine is rich in history, blending influences from the Middle East, North Africa, and even Europe. Egyptian Goulash is believed to have originated from the country’s Ottoman influence, as similar meat pies are found in Turkish and Greek cuisine. Over time, it became a household favorite in Egypt, with families passing down their own versions of the dish through generations.
This dish is often served during festive occasions, Ramadan, and family dinners. It is a staple in many Egyptian homes because it is both filling and budget-friendly. The ability to prepare it ahead of time also makes it a convenient choice for busy households. Many home cooks assemble the pie in advance and store it in the refrigerator, baking it fresh when needed.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Egyptian Goulash is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Since it has a rich, meaty filling and crispy layers, it is best complemented by something fresh and light. A simple cucumber and tomato salad, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil, is a classic side that brings balance to the meal. A dollop of yogurt or tzatziki sauce can also add a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced beef.
For a full Mediterranean feast, consider serving Egyptian Goulash with:
- Fattoush Salad: A refreshing Lebanese salad with crispy pita chips, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing.
- Hummus or Baba Ganoush: Creamy dips made from chickpeas or roasted eggplant, served with warm pita bread.
- Lentil Soup: A hearty and nutritious soup that complements the dish’s flavors.
- Pickled Vegetables: Middle Eastern-style pickles add a tangy bite that cuts through the richness of the meat pie.
This dish also works well as a party appetizer. Instead of cutting it into large squares, you can slice it into smaller bite-sized portions, making it easy for guests to enjoy. It is a great option for potlucks, as it stays crispy and flavorful even when served at room temperature.
Tips for Making the Best Egyptian Goulash
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor in Egyptian Goulash, follow these key tips:
- Thaw Phyllo Dough Properly: Keep it in the fridge overnight and bring it to room temperature before using. This prevents it from becoming too dry or brittle.
- Use Enough Olive Oil or Butter: Brushing each phyllo layer with oil or butter ensures a crispy texture and prevents the dough from cracking.
- Season the Meat Well: The filling is the heart of the dish, so make sure to use enough spices and salt to enhance the flavors.
- Cut Before Baking: Slicing the pie into squares before baking allows the milk and egg mixture to seep into the layers evenly, ensuring a well-set and moist texture.
- Bake Until Golden Brown: Keep an eye on the oven, as phyllo can burn quickly. The pie should be crispy and golden when done.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Egyptian Goulash is the perfect dish for anyone who loves savory pastries and comforting meals. It is easy to prepare, requires simple ingredients, and delivers an impressive result. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Not only does it offer a delightful crunch and rich flavors, but it is also a great introduction to working with phyllo dough. If you’ve never used phyllo before, this recipe is a fantastic way to start, as it requires minimal shaping and handling.
Additionally, this dish can be customized to fit different dietary needs. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can swap the beef for mushrooms, lentils, or a combination of spinach and feta cheese. The possibilities are endless, making Egyptian Goulash a recipe that you can enjoy in many different ways.
Conclusion:
Egyptian Goulash is more than just a meat pie it is a symbol of comfort, tradition, and the rich culinary heritage of Egypt. With its crispy phyllo layers and flavorful beef filling, it offers the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you are looking for a simple dinner recipe, a dish to impress guests, or a way to explore Middle Eastern flavors, this savory pie is an excellent choice.
Once you try it, you’ll understand why it has been a favorite for generations. Serve it with a fresh salad, a side of yogurt, or a bowl of soup, and enjoy a meal that is both satisfying and full of history. Egyptian Goulash is proof that sometimes, the simplest ingredients come together to create the most unforgettable dishes.
